Tag Archives: lavender

Head Lice…….Eewwwww!

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Head lice – eewww, yuck, gross.  The only thing nice we could say about head lice is that it’s not dangerous and it’s an equal opportunity pest.  Lovely.  We could also say that it’s disgusting and annoying.

Now that school has begun, it is just a matter of time before head lice start making the rounds.  Our school year started one month ago and there have already been a couple of cases of lice reported, which prompted me to do a little research.  I know that there are chemical-laden products that I can buy at my local drugstore but that’s not really my style.  Since getting rid of lice usually takes repeated treatments I do not want to use harsh chemicals over and over again on my kids’ heads.  I’ve read that the over-the-counter treatments don’t always work.  Parents are then left with using an even stronger prescription chemical to kill the lice called “lidane.”  I came across this article that contained this quote: “According to the FDA, lidane products can cause serious side effects for many reasons, even when used as directed.”  And we all know that everyone reads and follows directions very carefully, so no worries there.  I also thought this was interesting…..

The pesticide [lidane] has been targeted for worldwide phase-out since 2009 by the Stockholm Convention, a global treaty that targets some of the world’s deadliest toxins. The U.S. has not ratified the treaty , and has no imminent plans to ban lidane for head lice.

Since 2006, lidane can no longer be used here on crops or cattle, or for any other purpose regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. A so-called “second line” treatment – meaning it’s only to be used if other methods fail – for head lice and scabies, lidane has been linked to cancer, seizures and deaths, according to the FDA.

 

We can’t use lidane on cattle but the FDA says I can use it repeatedly on my child’s (developing) head.  No thanks.  There have got to be better alternatives than that.

When we lived in Brooklyn, I heard about this woman who calls herself the Ladybug .  She has a booming business but she never advertises. She gets the job done and she doesn’t use over-the-counter pesticides.  Here is a NYT article about her.  But what if you don’t have a professional nit-picker in your neighborhood and you don’t want to use pesticides?

I searched the oil-testimonials.com website to see what worked for other people and found these testimonials on lice.  My essential oil desk reference recommends tea tree, lavender, peppermint, thyme, geranium, nutmeg, rosemary, cinnamon.   It also gave this recipe…

  • 4 drops thyme
  • 2 drops lavender
  • 2 drops geranium

You may apply single oils or blends neat or diluted, depending on the oils that are used (thyme is “hot” so I would dilute).  Add 1 tsp. of oil diluted 50/50 to shampoo and massage onto entire scalp. 

  • Cover with a disposable shower cap and leave on for at least 1/2 hour.
  • Rinse well using 1 cup of Thieves Fresh Essence Plus Mouthwash massaged into hair and scalp.  Leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing out.

I would also add combing the hair with a special nit comb.

Of course I also wonder if there is anything I can do to prevent lice?  There are no studies, which is not a surprise, but I am using lavender and peppermint on my kids daily.  One or two drops on my hands which I then massage into their scalps.  It certainly can’t hurt and it may make their hair inhospitable to lice looking for a new home.

As I have mentioned before, all essential oils are not created equal.  When you use an essential oil make sure it is a pure therapeutic grade oil.  If you purchase an oil from your health food store and it doesn’t work, don’t blame all essential oils, it may just be that brand.  If you really want to see results don’t waste time or money on oils that may be diluted and/or adulterated.  Essential oils are effective when they have been made well.  Just like many other things in life – you get what you pay for.  Invest in your family’s health; it will truly pay off.

Ready to get started using pure therapeutic grade essential oils?  See my “How to Order Young Living Oils” page or just go here.

-Francine

 

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101 Uses for the Essential 7 Kit

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Young Living’s promotion this month is the Essential 7 kit.  Please see my "Monthly Promotions" page for the promotion details.  The kit includes 7 – 5 ml bottles of some of Young Living’s most popular and useful oils.  I  love getting the 5 ml bottles because they are great to carry with you.  I have my "oil bag" that is always filled with most if not all of the oils from this kit and it comes with me everywhere.  Why would you want to bring these oils with you?  Well, since you asked…..

1. In case you, or someone (including an animal) gets hurt ( panaway or lavender).

2. If you eat something at lunch that doesn’t agree with you (peppermint).

3. If you get any kind of bug bite (including bees & wasps) (purification).

4. If you need to clean your hands but have no running water or soap (lemon).

5. If you need a mental pick me up (peppermint).

6. If you need an emotional pick me up (joy).

7. If you are stressed from work or traffic (lavender or peace & calming)

8. If you get a headache (panaway, peppermint or lavender).

9. If you need to calm a tired or cranky child (or adult!) (peace & calming).

10. If you just want to smell really, really good (joy).

101 Uses for the Essential 7 Kit

The Essential 7 Kit was created by Young Living Essential Oils (YLEO) so that anyone could immediately use and appreciate the benefits of therapeutic-grade essential oils. The Kit contains three single oils: Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Lemon (Citrus limon) and Peppermint (Mentha piperita), and four oil blends: Joy, PanAway, Peace & Calming and Purification. All single oils may be used as dietary supplements. All of the oils may by diffused. The diffuser from YLEO is a special air pump that is custom designed to disperse the oils in a microfiber vapor. This allows the oils to stay suspended in the air to reduce bacteria, fungi and mold. It also freshens the air with natural fragrances, eliminating the need for synthetic, harmful air fresheners. The diffuser disperses the oils without heat, which could render the essential oils less effective. All of the oils can be applied to the Vita Flex points on the feet, added to bath water mixed with YLEO’s Bath Gel Base, applied topically or used with body and foot massage. PLEASE CAREFULLY READ AND FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES FOR THE SAFE USE OF YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS INCLUDED AT THE END OF THIS HANDOUT.

LAVENDER – (Lavandula angustifolia) is the most versatile of all essential oils. Therapeutic-grade lavender has been highly regarded for the skin. Lavender has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects. It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises and skin irritations. The fragrance is calming relaxing and balancing — physically and emotionally. THIS PLANT IS GROWN AND DISTILLED AT THE YOUNG LIVING FARMS.

1. Rub Lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the body.

2. Rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.

3. Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting or insect bite to stop itching and reduce swelling.

4. Put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain.

5. Drop Lavender oil on a cut to stop the bleeding.

6. Mix several drops of Lavender oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil and use topically on eczema and dermatitis.

7. To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue or around the naval or behind the ears.

8. To stop a nosebleed, put a drop of Lavender oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice. Push the tissue covered ice chip up under the middle of the top lip to the base of the nose and hold as long as comfortable or until the bleeding stops (do not freeze the lip or gum).

9. Rub a drop of Lavender oil over the bridge of the nose to unblock tear ducts.

10. Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped skin.

11. Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips.

12. To reduce or minimize the formation of scar tissue, massage Lavender oil on and around the affected area.

13. Rub 2 – 4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a deodorant.

14. Rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.

15. Rub several drops of Lavender oil into the scalp to help eliminate dandruff.

16. Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a cotton ball and place in your linen closet to scent the linens and repel moths and insects.

17. Place a drop of Lavender oil in your water fountain to scent the air, kill bacteria and prolong the time between cleanings.

18. Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and throw into the dryer, which will deodorize and freshen your laundry.

19. Put a drop of Lavender oil on a cold sore.

20. Diffuse Lavender oil to alleviate the symptoms of allergies.

21. Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn to decrease pain.

22. Drop Lavender oil on a cut to clean the wound and kill bacteria.

23. Apply 2-3 drops of Lavender oil to a rash to stop the itching and heal the skin.

LEMON – (Citrus limon) has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. It may serve as an insect repellent and may be beneficial for the skin. CAUTION: Citrus oils should NOT be applied to skin that will be exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light within 72 hours.

24. Use 6 drops of Lemon oil and 6 drops of Purification oil in a squirt bottle mixed with distilled water to use in the bathroom as an air freshener

25. Use 1-2 drops of Lemon oil to remove gum, oil, grease spots or crayon.

26. Use 1 drop of Lemon oil to add flavor to baked goods or beverages.

27. For homemade lemonade, in a blender mix 2 drops of Lemon oil, 2 tablespoons of honey and two cups of pure water. Adjust the amount of each ingredient to suit your own taste.

28. Rub a drop of Lemon oil on a corn, callous or bunion mornings and evenings.

29. To clean and increase the shelf life of fresh fruit, fill a bowl with cool water and 2-3 drops of Lemon oil. Drop your cleaned fruit into the water and stir. Be sure all surfaces of the fruit contact the lemon water.

30. Add 2-3 drops of Lemon oil to water and spray counter tops to sterilize them.

31. Soak your dishcloth overnight in a bowl of water and a drop of Lemon oil to disinfect and kill germs.

32. Add a drop of Lemon oil to your dishwasher before the wash cycle.

33. Rub a drop of Lemon oil on your hands after using a public bathroom.

34. Use a paper towel soaked with several drops of Lemon oil to sanitize bathroom fixtures.

35. Place a drop of Lemon oil on cold sores, herpes or other mouth ulcers to lessen pain and aid healing.

36. Put a drop of Lemon oil on bleeding gums caused by gingivitis or tooth extraction.

37. Put a drop of Lemon oil on oily skin or acne to balance sebaceous glands (oil glands).

38. Rub several drops of Lemon oil on cellulite to improve circulation and help eliminate waste from the cells.

39. Rub two drops of Lemon oil topically to clear athlete’s foot.

40. Rub several drops of Lemon oil on varicose veins to improve circulation and relieve pressure on the veins.

41. Rub a drop of Lemon oil on a wart morning and night until it disappears.

42. Rub a drop of Lemon oil to clean a butcher’s block or other cutting surfaces.

43. Put 10-15 drops of Lemon oil in each gallon of carpet cleaning solution to help pull out stains and brighten the rug. This also leaves a fresh smell in the room.

PEPPERMINT – (Mentha piperita) is one of the oldest and most highly regarded herbs for soothing digestion. Jean Valnet, M.D., studied peppermint’s effect on the liver and respiratory systems. Other scientists have also researched peppermint’s role in affecting impaired taste and smell when inhaled. Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint’s ability to improve concentration and mental accuracy. Alan Hirsch, M.D., studied peppermint’s ability to directly affect the brain’s satiety center, which triggers a sense of fullness after meals. PEPPERMINT IS GROWN AND DISTILLED AT THE YOUNG LIVING FARMS.

44. Rub 4-6 drops in the palm and rub over stomach and around the navel to relieve indigestion, flatulence and diarrhea.

45. Add a drop of Peppermint oil to herbal tea to aid in digestion and relieve heartburn.

46. Massage several drops of Peppermint oil on the area of injury to reduce inflammation.

47. Apply Peppermint oil immediately to an injured area (bruised shin, hit on the foot or hand) to relieve pain. If there is a cut, apply the Peppermint oil around (not on) the open wound.

48. Rub several drops of Peppermint oil on the bottoms of the feet to reduce fever.

49. Apply a drop of Peppermint oil topically on unbroken skin to stop itching.

50. For poison ivy or poison oak, apply Peppermint oil on location neat or dilute with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil.

51. Inhale Peppermint oil before and during a workout to boost your mood and reduce fatigue..

52. Massage several drops of Peppermint oil on the abdomen to relieve nausea

53. To relieve a headache, rub a drop of Peppermint oil on the temples, forehead, over the sinuses (stay away from the eyes) and on the back of the neck.

54. To stop hiccups, apply a drop of Peppermint oil on each side of the fifth cervical vertebra (up three notches from the large vertebra at the base of the neck).

55. Place two drops of Peppermint oil on the tongue and rub another drop under the nose to improve alertness and concentration.

56. Diffuse Peppermint oil in the room while studying to improve concentration and accuracy. Inhale Peppermint oil while taking a test to improve recall.

57. Rub 4 drops of Peppermint oil on chest and stomach to relieve travel sickness.

58. Place a drop of Peppermint oil on the tongue and inhale into the nose and sinuses to relieve congestion from a cold.

59. Add Peppermint oil to food as a flavoring and a preservative.

60. To deter rats, mice, ants or cockroaches, place two drops of Peppermint oil on a cotton ball and place along the path or point of entry for these pests.

61. Mix one 15 ml. bottle of Peppermint oil into a 5 gallon can of paint to dispel the fumes.

62. Place a couple of drops of Peppermint oil in a cup of hot water and enjoy in place of coffee.

63. To kill aphids, add 4-5 drops of Peppermint oil to 4 ounces of water and spray the plants.

64. Drink a drop of Peppermint oil mixed in a glass of cold water to cool off on a hot day.

65. Rub Peppermint oil on joints to relieve arthritis or tendonitis pain.

66. Place a drop of Peppermint oil on the tongue to stop bad breath.

67. Inhale the fragrance of Peppermint oil to curb the appetite and lessen the impulse to overeat.

68. Remove ticks by applying a drop of Peppermint oil on a cotton swab and swabbing the tick. Wait for it to unhedge its head and remove from your pet.

69. Mix Peppermint oil in a footbath to relieve sore feet. Keep water agitated while soaking feet.

JOY – An exotic, luxurious blend of Lemon (Citrus limon), mandarin (Citrus reticulata), bergamot (Citrus bergamia), ylang ylang (Cananga odorata), rose (Rosa damascena), rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora), geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii), Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), and jasmine (Jasminum officinale) that produces an uplifting magnetic energy and brings joy to the heart. When worn as a cologne or perfume, Joy exudes an alluring and irresistible fragrance that inspires romance and togetherness. When diffused, it can be refreshing and uplifting.

70. Rub a drop of Joy oil over the heart and on the bottom of each foot to relieve feelings of frustration or depression.

71. Put a drop of Joy oil on the tip of the nose to uplift your mood.

72. Wear a drop of Joy oil behind each ear as a perfume.

73. Rub a drop of Joy oil between your palms and then spread over the face and neck after shaving.

74. Rub two drops of Joy oil on areas of the body with poor circulation to improve blood flow.

75. Rub two drops of Joy oil on the armpit area to use for a deodorant.

76. Rub two drops of Joy oil on the heart and feet to increase libido.

77. Sprinkle a few drops of Joy oil into potpourri to improve the fragrance.

PANAWAY – A blend of wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), which has an active constituent similar to cortisone; clove (Syzygium aromaticum), which contains eugenol, used by dentists to numb gums; peppermint (Mentha piperita), which is calming for nerves; and helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), which is soothing for localized discomfort. This blend was created by Gary Young following an injury that severely tore the ligaments in his leg.

78. Apply PanAway oil topically on an injured area to reduce inflammation and bruising.

79. Apply PanAway oil topically to sore muscles after exercising.

80. Rub a drop of PanAway oil on the temples, forehead and back of the neck to relieve a headache.

81. Mix PanAway oil with massage oil and massage on location to stop growing pains.

82. Rub 1-2 drops of PanAway oil on arthritic hands to lessen pain.

83. Rub 2-3 drops of PanAway oil at the base of the spine to relieve sciatic pain.

84. For arthritic pets, massage PanAway oil diluted with V-6 Vegetable on location or a drop in the food.  

PEACE & CALMING – A gentle, fragrant blend of Tangerine (Citrus nobilis), orange (Citrus sinensis), ylang ylang (Cananga odorata), patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) and blue tansy (Tanacetum annuum) specially designed for diffusing. It promotes relaxation and a deep sense of peace, helping to calm tensions and uplift spirits.

85. Rub 1-2 drops of Peace & Calming oil on the bottom of the feet and on the shoulders before bedtime to get good quality sleep.

86. Diffuse Peace & Calming oil in the room to calm overactive or hard to manage children.

87. Mix Peace & Calming oil with massage oil for a relaxing massage.

88. Put Peace & Calming oil mixed with Bath Gel Base in warm water for a relaxing bath.

89. To help stop nocturnal teeth grinding, diffuse Peace & Calming oil while sleeping.

PURIFICATION – An antiseptic blend of Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus), lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus), rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis), melaleuca (Melaleuca alternifolia), lavandin (Lavandula x hybrida) and myrtle (Myrtus communis) formulated for diffusing to purify and cleanse the air and neutralize mildew, cigarette smoke and disagreeable odors.

90. Diffuse Purification oil to clean the air and neutralize foul or stale odors.

91. Put several drops of Purification oil on a cotton ball and place in the air vents in the home, office, hotel room or other enclosed area.

92. While traveling, inhale Purification oil during flights to protect yourself from pathogens found in the recirculated air.

93. Put a drop of Purification oil on insect bites to cleanse and stop the itching.

94. Apply a drop of Purification oil on blemishes to clear the skin.

95. Rub a drop of Purification oil on the outside of a sore throat when it is first beginning.

96. Rub a drop of Purification oil on a blister to cleanse and disinfect.

97. Put 2 drops of Purification oil on two cotton balls and place in the toes of smelly sneakers to combat odors.

98. Place a drop of Purification oil on each end of a cotton swab and place on top of your cold water humidifier to clean the air.

99. Dilute Purification oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil and swab the nasal cavity to ward off the flu.

100. Spritz several drops of Purification oil mixed with water to repel insects.

101. Apply Purification oil and Peppermint oil diluted with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil to a cotton swab and rub just inside the ear to eliminate ear mites in cats and dogs.

Obligatory Disclaimer: The information in this handout is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Anyone suffering from any disease, illness or injury should consult with a physician. THESE SUGGESTED USES APPLY ONLY TO THE USE OF THERAPEUTIC GRADE, YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS. GUIDELINES FOR THE SAFE USE OF YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS.

1. Always keep a bottle of V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil, Massage Oil Base or any pure vegetable oil handy when using essential oils. Vegetable oils dilute essential oils if they cause discomfort or skin irritation.

2. Keep bottles of essential oils tightly closed and store them in a cool location away from light. If stored properly, essential oils will maintain their potency for many years.

3. Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Treat them as you would any product for therapeutic use.

4. Do not use essential oils rich in menthol (such as peppermint) on the throat or neck area of children under 30 months of age.

5. Direct sunlight and essential oils. Lemon, bergamot, orange, grapefruit, tangerine, White Angelica and other citrus oils may cause a rash or darker pigmentation if applied to skin exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays with 3 to 4 days of use.

6. Keep essential oils away from eye area and do not put into ears. Do not handle contact lenses or rub eyes with essential oils on fingers. Oils with high phenol content –  oregano, helichrysum, cinnamon, thyme, clove. Lemongrass, bergamot, Thieves and ImmuPower – may damage contacts and irritate eyes.

7. Pregnant women should consult their health care professional before using essential oils containing constituents with hormone-like activity, such as clary sage, sage, Idaho tansy, juniper and fennel.

8. Epileptics and those with high blood pressure should consult their health care professional before using essential oils. Avoid hyssop, fennel and Idaho tansy oils.

9. People with allergies should test a small amount of oil on a small area of sensitive skin, such as the inside of the arm, before applying the oil on other areas. The bottom of the feet is one of the safest, most effective places to use essential oils.

10. Before taking GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe) essential oils internally, always dilute with an oil-soluble liquid like honey, olive oil or soy milk.

11. Do not add undiluted essential oils directly to bath water. Use Bath Gel Base as a dispersing agent for oils in the bath.

References: Young, N.D., Gary D. An Introduction to Young Living Essential Oils. Ninth Edition, 2001. Essential Oils Desk Reference. Compiled by Essential Science Publishing, Second Edition, July 2001.

If you want to learn more about how to get started using Young Living Essential Oils  see my “How to Order Young Living Oils” page for more details or you can contact me at 347-278-2242 for a free oils introduction.

Francine Smith blogs about Young Living Essential oils.  You can find more posts at www.younglivinglife.com

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Allergies and Young Living Essential Oils

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Yay, spring!!  For those that live in more seasonal climates it is a time for new leaves on the trees and flowers to start blooming.  About a year ago my family and I moved from Brooklyn to Tucson.  As this past winter wore on and I would hear of one big snowstorm after another I would feel quite content with our new desert environment. But now, knowing that spring is on its way I do feel a tug at my heartstrings just a bit.  I miss the first green on the trees, the first flowers showing off their shiny new colors and I really miss a certain tree in my old neighborhood that would smell soooooo good in the late spring/early summer.

For some, with spring comes allergies.  I never had allergies and at 43 I thought I was safe from ever getting them but apparently that might not be so.  I’m not sure if it’s because I am not used to these desert spores or just my body changing with age but this fall and now this past week I have had some allergic symptoms. I’m often asked what oils work well for allergies and I have personally found lavender to be amazing.  I had a bit of a runny nose the last couple of days and when I finally had the  oh-this-might-be-allergies- realization I put about 3 drops of lavender in a capsule.  That cleared up my runny nose for the day with no adverse side effects like some over-the-counter medicines can have.  I first tried lavender for allergies this fall when I realized that a desert weed was the cause of what I thought to be a never ending cold.  I was using my oils, and they helped, but when I used the lavender internally it was like magic how quickly my never-ending-cold finally ended.

Here is a link to the essential oil testimonial website page about allergies.    And below are a couple of posts that I found interesting…

“I have several friends with children who have allergies/asthma that come and visit my farm. Normally after 15 minutes in my barn, and around my animals, they come out with swollen eyes, stuffy noses, red faces, and going to Mom for Benadryl, or inhalers, or what have you.

I got rather frustrated so made a rule that if these children wanted to be in my barn, they had to use two oils before entering! First I had them put Lavender on the palm of one hand, rub their hands together, and then wipe their hands on their faces, necks, and arms, and anything not covered. I had them do the same with Peppermint, but only had them inhale this from cupped hands over their noses, but not wiping it on themselves.

Now these kids can spend hours in the barn with no ill effects – no runny noses, no swollen eyes, ect. I was amazed and delighted because now they can spend time with the animals which they love.”

And this one as well…

“I used to use steroid nasal inhalers every late summer until the first killing frost for my allergies. I no longer need to because I’ve discovered Lavender oil. I put a few drops on the bottoms of my feet, chest and throat, every morning. I experimented and stopped doing it once, and by the 3rd day the allergies were back. Once I resumed, they were gone again within 24 hours.”

There are also many other oils that can help relieve symptoms.  R.C. is great for any chest congestion and Breath Again roll on really helps clear nasal and sinus passages. I have also heard that Sulfurzyme and Ningxia Red are great supplements to add to your diet.  Both will give your immune system support and will help to get some relief from allergy symptoms.

Want to try something new this allergy season?  Great!  See my “How to Order Young Living Oils” page for more details.

Francine Smith blogs about Young Living Essential oils.  You can find more posts at www.younglivinglife.com

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A Natural Apothecary with Young Living Essential Oils – Part I

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My husband had just left with the kids to run some errands, at least that was what I thought, when the door opened and  he came back in.  He had accidentally closed the car door on his hand which left a big gash on his thumb.  My first thought was to grab my oils and I ran for my lavender.  I could see he was in pain and the gash was nasty.  He rinsed his finger and put some pressure on it.  He was a bit resistant about using the lavender but he finally did relent and immediately I could see he felt some relief.  We put a few drops on, bandaged him up and off he went.  When he took the band-aid off later that day he was amazed at how nicely his wound was healing.  His comment to me was something like you need to tell everyone about this stuff!

This post is about using oils every day as an at-home apothecary for boo-boos and wrinkles and everything in between.  I invite you to leave comments about your favorite oils and how you use them.  All of these oils are safe to use on children unless otherwise noted.

I know I say this in every post but quality really does make a difference.  If you want therapeutic results than you have to use a therapeutic grade essential oil.  Otherwise, you may have a nice smelling oil without the therapeutic benefits.

From the Young Living website:

“The process Young Living uses when planting, cultivating, harvesting, and distilling a batch of oil is crucial to retaining its vital compounds. Without the exact blend of naturally-occurring plant chemicals, an essential oil can lose its beneficial properties and fail to produce the desired effect.

Young Living Therapeutic Grade (YLTG) means that every essential oil Young Living distills or sources has the optimal naturally-occurring blend of constituents to maximize the desired effect. Young Living is able to make this assertion because of our strict cultivation process—illustrated by the Four Ps—that guarantees the optimal potency of every Young Living essential oil.”

The four P’s are – Plants, Preparation, Purity, Potency.  By planting the right plants, in the right place, distilling them at the right time and in the right way, testing every batch to insure purity and using the highest standards to maximize the effectiveness of the oil.  See this link for more details on YL’s four P’s.

Lavender – I have to start here because it is my go-to oil for injuries.  When in doubt, use lavender.  Lavender was used in WWII in field hospitals to relieve pain and speed up the recovery process.

  • Cuts, scrapes, bruises, burns – apply as quickly as possible and as often as needed
  • Calms the nervous system, aids better sleep, may help prevent snoring – rub on the back of the neck, the chest, the wrists or feet
  • Great for skin, stretch marks
  • Wrinkle recipe – 1 drop lavender, 1 drop lemon, 1 drop frankincense – use at night directly on face

Thieves – is a Young Living blend that has clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus radiata, and rosemary.  It is an antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial combination that has been shown to kill mold more effectively than more traditional cleaners, like bleach.  What’s more, it’s not toxic.  Use to boost immunity and to prevent sickness.

  • Take internally when you think you might be coming down with something start with 3 drops in a capsule – add 2 drops of oregano if available
  • Rub on the bottom of the feet for general immunity
  • Take a drop on the tongue or add a drop or two to a small glass of water and gargle for a sore throat
  • Drop on the thumb and press to the roof of the mouth for a headache
  • Apply directly to warts or nail fungus

Valor - has become one of my favorite oils.  It is a great grounding blend and is known to support energy alignment in the body.  It can also quickly reduce swelling caused by injuries.

  • One drop on wrists or one on each foot to help align the body
  • Use with Harmony, Joy and White Angelica as part of the mood elevating protocol
  • Use as much as needed as quickly as possible on injuries like broken bones or “goose egg” bruises.  When my son broke his nose valor was the first oil I was able to put on him and I noticed a visible difference in the swelling after applying.  It’s truly remarkable to see.
  • also good to use for trauma, postpartum or grieving

These are just 3 of the 9 oils that are part of the everyday oils collection and of course, these are just a few of the ways you can use these oils to enhance a healthy lifestyle.

Can’t wait to get started using Young Living Oils?  Great! See my “How to Order Young Living Oils” page for more details.

Francine Smith blogs about Young Living Essential oils.  You can find more posts at www.younglivinglife.com

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Young Living Essential Oils, Kids & Parenting

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When I first started using Young Living oils over 10 years ago it was because I fell in love with the scent of pure essential oils.  Once I smelled the blend Joy for the first time I never wore perfume again – ever.  My nose could no longer accept synthetic scents and my only choice was to use pure essential oils or nothing.  Even though I enjoyed the oils, I wasn’t sure how to use them and without all the information that is now available thanks to the internet I stopped using them for a number of years.  My mother who started with the oils when I did, continued to use them and benefit from them.  Every so often I would have her get me a bottle of Gentle Baby or Lavender to keep on hand.

Last year when my kids were 3 and 6 years old we were having a hard time getting them to settle down for the night.  We lived in Brooklyn, NY at the time and although I love city living it is a bit more stressful for everyone, including kids.  I was using lavender at night, putting it on their wrists or on their pillows and at first there was a bit of resistence but in time they enjoyed the new bedtime routine.  Then one night I realized I ran out of lavender, actually I think I just misplaced it, but either way it was gone.  It was time for bed and my son was not interested in going to sleep.  My mother, wonderful person that she is, had given me a bottle of Peace and Calming which was sitting on the shelf.  Now, to be honest, Peace and Calming was not my favorite scent so I was a bit unsure about using it but I needed to try something so I put it on my wrists and walked into my sons room and waved my arms around a bit.  In less than 60 seconds he finished getting dressed for bed and got into bed with a book.  It all happened so fast my husband and I looked at each other in amazement and that was when I knew these oils were something altogether different.  I had in my hands something that could soothe my kids in a safe and effective way and it was practically instantaneous.  WOW!

Now when they are hurt or upset they ask for the oils.  In the last year I have used Gentle Baby to soothe tired and cranky children, again with very fast results.  I’ve  used peppermint to cool a fever so my son could get back to sleep.  And I’ve used lavender over and over again for bumps, bruises, burns, cuts & bug bites.  The oils have slowly but surely become a part of our life, a life that I feel better about.  As my collection of oils has grown, our medicine cabinets have become more and more sparse.  We have children’s motrin if we should need it but we haven’t needed it in quite a while.  I will always see a Doctor if my kids are sick but I will also use my oils and I find that when they do get sick, as they will from time to time, an oil like Thieves is amazing in helping them get better faster and keeps the rest of us from getting it.  Big yeah for that!

When I tell people I use essential oils sometimes I get a certain look.  Like they are trying to figure out if I am for real or not, kind of like they heard what I just said but don’t really understand what I mean.  I don’t blame them because I know so many people simply do not understand what these oils can do.  There are so few places to get pure essential oils and the stuff they sell in the stores is often not pure so it makes sense that most have no idea of the power of therapeutic grade essential oils.  What I love, love, love is when someone jumps in and tries them.  I love getting that phone call, the “Oh my God”  phone call.  The “I used this on that and it worked so fast” phone call.  Because even though they hear what I’m saying or read the studies or whatever I think most people do not expect these oils to work the way that they do and when they do – wow!  Are the oils for everyone?  Nothing is for everyone but if you are looking for a way to take care of yourself, your family, even your pets, using less chemicals and more natural products than you may very well be looking for these oils.

From the moment I conceived my first child, and I have two now, I have been concerned about what “touched” them.  What foods, what TV shows, what schools they went to – and I know at times I have probably been too concerned over some things and not concerned enough about others – hey, that’s just parenting for you.  When I started with the oils, though I used caution, I felt like I found something that I could use that wasn’t tainted.  So often we discover that a product that might be good for you one minute, may turn out to be avoided like the plague the next.  With essential oils I am not using some faddish, new & improved product.  I’m using natural plants.  This stuff has been around for thousands of years.  There are over 1oo biblical references of essential oils , the Egyptians wrote formulas in hieroglyphics, tomb raiders left jewels and stole the oils because that is how valuable they were.  So I’m not worried that a report is going to come out next week that tells me that Frankincense is bad for me, actually a report will probably be coming out about how good it is for me.  I am cautious, I check which oils are ok for kids and in the last year every time I’ve used the oils on them it has been a positive experience.  Just the other day, my daughter was playing with a changing room door and smashed her finger.  She was quite upset and in a fair amount of pain and anyone nearby knew it, but as I put the oil on and asked her if it felt better she was still fussing a bit but it wasn’t because of her pain.  She was still in the mode of expressing her pain but her pain was no longer there.  Once she got it, that the pain was gone, she was up and out the door and ready to jump in the pool.  No need for ice, no swelling – I’ve never seen kids heal as fast and get over the upset and move on as when I use the oils.

As a parent I’ve noticed that when I’m feeling stressed, my kids can take on that stress.  I try, and sometimes I even succeed, to reduce my stress before it grows bigger and bigger.  I grab an oil and it is such a relief.  It makes me stop and smell something wonderful, that alone will reduce stress, but then all the amazing constituents get into my blood stream and get to work.  It is, hands down, one of the biggest benefits of using the oils.  They are easy to carry around, so I always have a couple of oils on hand, and when I need them I am so happy to have them because they work – fast.  Whatever your need is – easing stress, pain relief, more focus – there is an oil that can satisfy that need at anytime.

Can’t wait to get started using Young Living Oils?  Great! See my “How to Order Young Living Oils” page for more details.

Francine Smith blogs about Young Living Essential oils.  You can find more posts at www.younglivinglife.wordpress.com

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Lavender, the "Swiss Army Knife" of Essential Oils

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Rene-Maurice Gattefosse was a French chemist who worked in the laboratories of a cosmetics firm that his family owned when he burned his hand .  He quickly plunged his hand into the nearest liquid which happened to be a tub of lavender essential oil.  He was amazed at how quickly his hand healed and he went on to study essential oils.  He used oils like lavender, clove, lemon and thyme  during the First World War on soldiers in a military hospital and noted  that the wounds would heal faster.  He is known as the father of Aromatherapy as he wrote a book that is still in print today called, Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy.  

Lavender is one of the most versatile oils and one of the most loved.  I like to have a bottle of it at home and a bottle to carry with me because it is just that handy.  Lavender is an antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-depressant, analgesic, anti-tumoral, anticonvulsant, antihistamine, vasodilating, relaxant, anti-inflammatory.  When in doubt use lavender, if its therapeutic grade.  Studies have also shown that lavender helps to improve concentration, promote relaxation and reduces depression.

Use lavender for minor burns, including sunburn.  I’ve used it neat directly on burns or you could dilute it by mixing 20 drops with 4 oz of Aloe Vera Juice for a cooling sunburn spray.

I’ve had great results on bruises for myself and my children.  This past winter I closed my hand in my car door – ouch!  My first thought was “What oils do I have?”  I grabbed my lavender, took the cap off, opened the door, whipped my glove off and used several drops of oil and immediately felt relief.  The throbbing eased enough so that I could drive home.  When I stopped at a light I put a couple more drops on and by the time I got home I had no pain and no bruising.  The whole thing took about 10 -15 mins.  My other favorite lavender story is when my son was playing with a golf ball in the house.  Ok, I know playing with a golf ball inside defies parental logic and as I was asking him to stop playing with the golf ball, bam, he throws the ball it hits the wall bounces back and hits him in the middle of his forehead.  I grab my lavender and cover the area that is red and swelling.  The bump, which was substantial, disappears.  He stops crying and goes back to playing, not with the golf ball of course.  The whole thing lasts less than 5 minutes.  I love using lavender in situations like these because you not only get the healing effect on what hurts but you get the calming effect as well.

Lavender is great for skin.  I put it directly on my skin or you could add it to a moisturizer either way it is a great way to reduce wrinkles or acne.  It also help to minimize scarring and stretch marks.  It can also be used to heal cuts and is one of the few oils that can be applied directly to an open wound.  It will  clean the wound as well as begin the healing process.  You can also do a wonderful at home facial steam bath by adding a few drops to hot water in a large bowl.  Cover your head with a towel lean your face over the bowl, about a foot away and enjoy.  It should feel good, if it gets to hot please stop, you may be too close to the steam or the temperature may be too high.

It is a wonderful sleep aid.  Inhaling it before bed is a great way to get a good nights sleep.  I put a drop on my hands, rub it on my neck and on my pillow.  If you have leg cramps or restless leg syndrome rub a few drops on each leg.  I have also used it on my kids before bed or when then need a little bit of extra comfort.  I massage it into their feet, on their backs or stomaches.  They LOVE it and will quickly get into bed if a foot massage is offered.  Actually, they love the oils and will choose the oils first when it comes to first aid over otc medications.

It could also be used for headaches, PMS (cramps), insect bites & stings.  I like to put a drop in my vacuum bag before I start vacuuming as it makes the house smell lovely.

Lavender can be used directly on skin, it can be diluted, diffused or directly inhaled by putting a drop on your palms, rub your hands together, bring your hands to your nose and breath deep –  ahhhh!

Here is a recipe for a Lavender Sea Salt Scrub from RecipeZarr.

1/2 cup sea salt

1/3 cup sweet almond oil (or grapeseed oil or both)

2 vitamin E capsules

1 tablespoon dried lavender blossoms, optional

8 drops pure therapeutic grade Young Living lavender oil

Directions

1. In a small glass jar or container add sea salt

2. Add almond oil starting with 1/4 cup.  Continue to add oil until you reach a consistency that is a think oily paste.

3. Open vitamin E capsules and add to mix

4. Add lavender flowers and essential oil.

5. Cover and let sit for one hour.

6. Remove cover and check scent.  Add more drops of oil if needed.

Makes about 5 scrubs.  Be careful not to use on cuts or wounds.  Enjoy!

You can get a free bottle of  Young Living therapeutic grade lavender, as well as other lavender products, this month with an order of 170 pv.  See the Young Living Monthly Promotions page for more info.

Francine

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Chakra System: Use Essential Oils to activate and balance your body's energy centers

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Chakra System

The following is a basic reference for how to use essential oils for activating and balancing the energy centers—chakras—of the body.

Chakra-web

First Earth: The Root (or Base) Chakra

Essential oils: Valor® essential oil, Abundance™essential oil
Apply topically to the bottoms of the feet and sacrum.
The root (or base) chakra is the first and most important chakra for yoga or any kind of healing work. The key words here are courage, security, safety, grounding, and boundaries.

Second Water: The Sacral Chakra

Essential oils: Peace & Calming® essential oil,Harmony™ essential oil
Apply topically below the navel.
The sacral chakra is the center of your creativity, desire, emotion, sexuality, and intuition. This is where you learn how to give and receive pleasure.

Third Fire: The Solar Plexus Chakra

Essential oils: Harmony™ essential oil , En-R-Gee™essential oil
Apply topically below the sternum and behind the stomach.
The solar plexus chakra is the center of personal power, ambition, intellect, astral force, desire, and emotions based on intellect and touch.

Fourth Air: The Heart Chakra

Essential oil: Joy™ essential oil
Apply topically to the center of the chest at heart level.
The heart chakra is the center of compassion, love, group consciousness, and spiritually associated with “oneness” with “all that is.”

Fifth Ether: The Throat Chakra

Essential oils: Believe™ essential oil, Valor® essential oil
Apply topically to the posterior neck and the base of the occiput (the back part of the head or skull).
The throat chakra is the center of communication, sound, and expression of creativity via thought, speech, and writing.

Sixth Light: Third Eye Chakra

Essential oils: Frankincense essential oil, Peppermint essential oil
Apply topically to the middle of the forehead and above the eyebrows.
The third eye chakra is the center of physic power, higher intuition, the energies of the spirit, magnetic forces, and light. This center is about Divine Thought, balanced intuition, and intellect.

Seventh Crown: The Crown Chakra

Essential oils: Frankincense essential oil, Lavender essential oil
Apply to the crown of the head.
The crown chakra is the center of spirituality, enlightenment, dynamic thought, and energy. The keyword is inspiration. This is the connecting link to your highest and finest self.

This page was taken from the Young Living Essential Oil website.

Francine

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Another reason to use Young Living Essential Oils – "Tylenol recall: Serious side effects investigated"

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I don’t know about you but I always imagined medicine to be produced in a pristine sterile environment.  Maybe because those pill bottles and the little cotton ball always seemed so clean but now I wonder.  Some may think of essential oils as a new-agey fad (if you can call being used during biblical times new agey) and products from big pharma like Tylenol seemed safe but as we hear more about this recall I really like knowing that my family and I have other options that are safe and natural.  Here is the link to the CNN post on the latest Tylenol recall.  http://money.cnn.com/2010/05/25/news/companies/tylenol_recall_adverse_consumer_complaints/index.htm

Whenever I have pain or discomfort I reach for my oils first.  In the past I would have grabbed Tylenol but now I have my oils and they are as effective and many times faster than over the counter meds.  Since I’ve been using Young Living Essential Oils I’ve gotten relief from headaches, sore muscles & joint pains, fever, sinus infections, dry skin, wrinkles, acne & better sleep (to name just some of the reasons why I use these oils) .  Of course those are all physical ailments Young Living Oils are also wonderful for emotional support as well.  When you consider all the stress we experience in our society and how we constantly hear how stress effects our physical health than nearly everyone can benefit from stress relief and many essential oils have been well documented to do just that.  The beauty of YLEO is that they are multi-taskers.  An oil like lavender may help ease tension and stress but it may also be used on burns, acne and other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.  Young Living has blend called Peace & Calming which, for me, is like magic in a bottle.  I have used this blend on my kids when they are having a hard time settling down at bed time but I know many adults who use it as a way to ease stress and anxiety. There are also essential oils like helichrysum or copaiba that are amazing at reducing inflammation.  If you are in pain, then you may also be stressed, so if you can reduce the pain then you will also reduce some of your stress.  One of the things that first amazed me about these oils is how fast they work and for people with chronic pain then having them at hand means having the ability to ease your pain & stress faster than popping a pill.  Essential oils work because they go straight into the blood stream and get sent right to the problem.  There have been times when I have felt relief from pain the moment I put the oil on what hurts – that is amazing and empowering!

Essential oils, high quality essential oils, are therapeutic, safe & effective so why not try them first?  Why not reach for some peppermint if you have digestion problems or a fever? Why not try lavender for better sleep?  Why not take more control over your own health & healing?  For me using the oils is right up there with eating well & exercising. It’s a lifestyle choice that I want for myself and my family.

I like to have options, especially when it comes to taking care of my family.  YLEO give me an alternative, the oils give me a choice and I would rather have the ability to choose what works best for my family than not know any other options.  I’ll still use over the counter or prescription medications if I have to but I really like knowing that when I reach for my oils I get relief  and if I should need more of a traditional medical treatment I will have my oils on hand to aid in faster healing.

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